Whyy? Change Crowned Training Provider of the Year at Regional Apprenticeships Awards

Whyy? Change, an independent training provider based in Rotherham, has been named ‘Training Provider of the Year’ at the South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025, having been recognised for delivering the region’s best apprenticeship programmes.

The award celebrates Whyy? Change’s role in powering workforce development through interactive face-to-face, industry-aligned programmes. Its consistent learner results, commitment to employer partnerships, and innovative delivery model distinguished it from a shortlist that included:

• The University of Sheffield
• Sheffield Hallam University
• Lifetime Training Ltd
• First Intuition
• Lavender International NDT
• Total Training Provision

Now in its fifth year of nominations, having been Highly Commended in 2024, Whyy? Change’s 2025-win marks a milestone in its journey from a little acorn to a mighty oak, now a recognised leading provider in professional education across South Yorkshire. With a 96% first-time EPA pass rate and over 75% of learners achieving Merit or Distinction, the Rotherham-based provider continues to raise the bar for apprenticeship training in South Yorkshire.

Emma Harrison, Managing Director of Whyy? Change said:

“To be named Training Provider of the Year is more than recognition, it’s validation. Of our people, our partners, and our purpose. I’m incredibly proud of the effort behind every learner journey we support.”

Also honoured on the night was Rebecca Beever of Straaltechniek UK Ltd, a Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketer currently studying with Whyy? Change, who received Technology and Digital Apprentice of the Year and was Highly Commended for Advanced Apprentice of the Year. Her story, from self-doubt to CIM Distinctions and public recognition, reflects Whyy? Change’s commitment to upskilling and developing the region’s top talent through tailored, face-to-face apprenticeship training.

Rachel Ovens, Rebecca’s Marketing Tutor, added:

“Watching Rebecca’s transformation has been inspiring. She embodies what’s possible when ambition meets the right training environment.”

James Lees, UK Sales Manager at Straaltechniek UK Ltd, said:

“Seeing Rebecca honoured, with her proud parents watching, was unforgettable. She earned every accolade. And Whyy? Change? The applause when their name was announced said everything.”

Why Whyy? Change Stands Out

• 13 apprenticeship standards across Levels 3–7 in Leadership, HR, Marketing, L&D, Quality, HSE, and Lean Six Sigma
• 96% first-time pass rate at End Point Assessment
• 1 in 3 apprentices progress into management roles
• 55% promoted, advanced, or professionally chartered post-apprenticeship

Ray Byrne, CEO of Whyy? Change, concluded:

“It feels like winning the World Cup. This award belongs to everyone at Whyy? Change, our team, our apprentices, and the employers who put their trust in us.”

With ambitious plans to double its apprentice intake by 2026 and expand across Yorkshire, Whyy? Change remains focused on its mission: To provide business knowledge and services to transform people and industry.

About Whyy? Change
Whyy? Change is one of South Yorkshire’s highest-rated independent training providers who offer apprenticeships, short courses, and accredited professional qualifications (Levels 3-7) to help businesses upskill their employees.

Unlike most traditional colleges or universities, Whyy? Change includes internationally recognised qualifications in CMI Leadership, CIPD HR and L&D, CIM Marketing, Lean & Six Sigma, and QHSE. Whyy? Change adds value to create the best learning experience possible through interactive face-to-face workshops, delivered by industry experts in open cohorts.